The New York Yankees were surprised when Juan Soto announced he would sign with the New York Mets, despite ongoing rumors and late-stage discussions suggesting he might stay in pinstripes. Soto’s choice to join a cross-town rival in late 2024 has raised questions about the Yankees’ ability to retain top talent amid concerns about their long-term prospects.
Reports reveal that the Yankees believed Soto was prepared to re-sign as recently as December 11, 2024, before his sudden turnaround. Despite widespread speculation, the Yankees were caught off guard by his final decision, which was heavily influenced by his family’s counsel. According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, the Yankees
“are convinced that Juan Soto was ready to re-sign with them on Dec. 11,”
but Soto asked for more time and then chose the Mets during a family discussion over lunch.
Why Juan Soto Doubted the Yankees’ Future Competitiveness
Juan Soto agreed to a staggering 15-year, $765 million contract with the Mets, a deal that speaks to his commitment but also his long-term view of the Yankees. In a March interview with Sports Illustrated, Soto expressed skepticism about whether the Yankees would maintain their winning form beyond the next five or six years. He questioned the strength of their farm system and the team’s sustained ability to compete at a high level.
Reflecting on his decision, Soto said,
“As you see how long this contract is going to be, it just came down to that decision, you know? What do they have in the farm system?”
He added,
“How many times can we be good on this team? I know the Yankees are going to be good for the next five, six years. We don’t know after that.”
These remarks highlight his desire for long-term stability, which influenced his choice to join the Mets.
Juan Soto Attributes His Mets Slump to an Adjustment Period
Since beginning his tenure with the Mets, Soto has struggled to find his usual form, batting just .233 through his first 53 games, a noticeable drop from his .288 average in 2024. This slow start has led to speculation about buyer’s remorse for the Mets after investing heavily in the star outfielder.
However, Jon Heyman of the New York Post disclosed conversations with Soto and his agent Scott Boras, who attributed the slump to an “adjustment period.” Heyman relayed that
“they both say that there’s an adjustment period,”
clarifying that the challenges Soto faces are unrelated to the record-breaking contract.
“They don’t think that it’s about the contract, the record $765 million deal, they believe it’s an adjustment that would come with any situation whether he’s making $765 million or $765,000.”
This assessment indicates confidence that Soto’s performance will improve as he settles in.
Yankees Pursue New Talent, Targeting a Third Baseman and Starting Pitcher
While still absorbing the loss of Soto, the Yankees are actively working to strengthen their roster through trades, aiming to fill critical gaps. Bob Nightengale reported that the Yankees are
“aggressively searching for a right-handed bat, preferably a third baseman, while also looking for another starter.”
This move suggests the front office is determined to reinforce key positions to sustain competitiveness despite Soto’s departure.
The Yankees’ efforts to acquire a valuable third baseman and bolster their starting rotation reflect their understanding that immediate rebuilding and reshaping will be necessary. These moves could impact the team’s trajectory in upcoming seasons and help address concerns about their long-term prospects that influenced Soto’s decision.
In summary, Juan Soto’s choice to join the Mets stems from a careful evaluation of the Yankees’ future, highlighting doubts about sustained success. Although his initial performance with New York has been underwhelming, both Soto and his representatives are optimistic about his adjustment period. Meanwhile, the Yankees’ aggressive pursuit of new talent signals their commitment to remaining contenders in Major League Baseball.